LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 18: Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal gesticulates during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium on January 18, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 18: Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal gesticulates during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium on January 18, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

Arsenal Match Reports

Arsenal vs Sheffield United: 5 things learned in another draw

by Josh Sippie
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(Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

4. Nicolas Pepe is well on his way

It hasn’t been a smooth sail for Nicolas Pepe since Arsenal broke their transfer record for him. Granted, coming over from Ligue 1 is definitely proving to be a difficult transition for just about anyone and everyone who attempts it. Hell, Alexandre Lacazette is still trying to figure it out.

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But against Sheffield United, we saw Nicolas Pepe in the midst of a flourish. When we first signed him, there were a lot of loose touches. He was trying to do too much. He was trying to change the world and prove himself and win us a title. All with one touch.

Against Sheffield, he was much more within himself. He had composure, he understood situations, but when the time came for him to try something, to make something happen, he did it. He lit a spark.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a better example of his pace and acceleration than we saw here. He was burning past defenders and making it look easy. He created the most obvious chances and was unlucky not to get away without an assist.

He’s getting better. And better. And better. And it’s something to be excited about.

On to No. 3.

Next: 3. We are, aren't we?

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